UPDATED: Cole-Chu nominated to become a Superior Court judge

Attorney Leeland J. Cole-Chu of Salem, partner in a New London law firm and active community servant, is one of six lawyers nominated by Gov. Dannel P. Malloy today to become a Superior court judge.

The others are Anna M. Ficeto of Westbrook, Donna Nelson Heller of Riverside, Raheem L. Mullins of Cromwell, Maureen McCabe Murphy of Middletown and Kevin B. Povodator of Fairfield.

"I'm very honored and look forward to a new avenue of public service," said Cole-Chu, a 63-year-old father of three grown daughters. He added that he will have to be confirmed by the General Assembly and that the process is expected to take about six weeks.

Cole-Chu said his partners at Cole-Chu, Cipparone & Zaccaro, P.C., would continue the firm's work.

"I have really enjoyed the practice of law in the City of New London and in New London County," he said. "There are parts of it I will miss a lot, particularly the friends that I see there regularly and professionally."

Cole-Chu received a bachelor of arts from Harvard University, a master of arts in urban studies from Occidental College in California and a law degree from the University of San Francisco in 1978. He formerly worked as special counsel to the city of Norwich, general counsel to the Norwich Housing Authority, and as a state of Connecticut mediator and arbitrator representing the interests of the public in public school teacher and administrator contract disputes.

There are currently 23 vacancies for Superior Court judges due to retirements or promotions to higher courts. Malloy said. He said he selected the candidates based on their diverse experiences in various legal disciplines.

"In selecting judicial nominees and reviewing the pool of candidates, it is necessary to choose individuals with the experience, temperament and skills to be thoughtful, reasoned and fair jurists," Gov. Malloy said. "With that in mind, it is also important that these individuals possess the qualities that mirror the residents of our state while also meeting the high principles and integrity our citizens deserve. This group of nominees will serve the Superior Court and the citizens of Connecticut well in their capacities on the bench."